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Originally Posted by ladyjane  A second opinion is always good. Not all pups need surgery for LP....the one thing that you need to be aware of is that with LP they are at an increased risk of tearing the cruciate ligament. |
This is true. Columbo had no issues until the LP caused him to tear his ACL at age 9. We didn't even know he had LP until then. He tore the ACL in the other leg 4 mos. after the first. His surgery was around $2700-3000 per leg. That was with a board certified orthopedic surgeon and the repair of both ACL & LP. He said it would have been a bit less if it was just the ACL. I think the cost depends on the area you live. I would plan a trip to visit an orthopedic surgeon for a consult and get their opinion and a cost estimate. If it's 4 hrs away, then maybe you can make it a trip (maybe overnight) for yourself and fit the consult in while you're there. It is definitely worth it. My vet said he had done thousands of these surgeries as opposed to maybe 15 my regular vet had done. Columbo made a full recovery and has full use of his legs back and I attribute that to a great surgeon. The surgeon may also tell you he doesn't even recommend the surgery at this time (or at all). If so, then I would start a savings account (just in in case LOL) in case his condition worsens someday or for other medical expenses someday, and if he never needs it, then its yours to spend some day!